Sergeant (Retired) Terry Patterson is a dedicated Veteran, leader, and community member whose life reflects service, resilience, and commitment both in uniform and beyond. Born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, he joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1983 and began his military career as an infantry soldier with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry. Over the course of his service, he served as a Section Commander and Acting Platoon Warrant Officer in a variety of units, building a career defined by leadership, discipline, and operational excellence.

During his time in the military, Sgt. Patterson deployed on training missions to Alaska and Norway, and on operational deployments to Cyprus and Bosnia. He also completed one year of French studies at CFB Valcartier. His service earned him several honours, including the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal, the United Nations Forces in Cyprus medal, the NATO Medal for Former Yugoslavia, the Non Article 5 NATO Medal for Operations in the Balkans, and the Canadian Forces Decoration. He was also awarded the Chief of Defence Staff Commendation for going above and beyond the call of duty after playing a key role in rescuing two service members from a serious vehicle accident.

After retiring from the military in 2005, Sgt. Patterson continued to lead with purpose. He earned a Certificate with Honours in Project Management from Red River College in Winnipeg and has since applied those skills in the construction industry. He currently serves as Senior Site Supervisor at Ventura Custom Homes, where he has worked since his retirement from military service.

Terry is also deeply rooted in family and community. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Melinda Clayton Patterson, and is the proud father of two sons, Terrance and Rodney. Terrance serves as a Lieutenant Colonel with the Canadian Forces Health Services Group Headquarters in Ottawa, while Rodney is remembered with love following his passing in 2020. Terry is also a proud grandfather to Kaiya, Amara, Miliana, Isaiah, and Jackson, who continue to be a great source of joy in his life.

Outside of his professional and military accomplishments, Terry is known for his love of sport and community involvement. A lifelong basketball enthusiast, he continues to play competitively and remains active in the sporting community. He also served as General Manager of the Manitoba Selects Football Travel Team from 2018 to 2021, supporting young athletes and helping strengthen community connections through sport.

Sergeant Terry Patterson’s story is one of courage, leadership, family, and continued service. His legacy lives not only in his military achievements, but also in the example he continues to set in his work, his community, and his family.